A sprawling perennial plant, Lotus corniculatus rarely grows taller that 15cm unless it has other plants to lean on, when it can reach 30cm or so. As with other members of the family Fabaceae, seed pods of Bird's-foot Trefoil are long and narrow, usually held in bunches three or more that look (so it has been suggested) rather like the claw-like feet of birds. Each pod holds several seeds (peas, of course!), and as they dry the pods twist and then split to release their seeds. Sow seeds in spring in situ.